3 vs 3 Circle Zone

DEFENDING: DEVELOP ZONAL DEFENDSIVE POSITIONING SKILLS IN DEFENSIVE 23m AREA

EXPLANATION:

• Ball starts with central X in midfield. 3 perimeter players (x’s) transfer ball laterally in midfield.
• 3 Defenders (O’s) set up triangle zone, lead point towards where the ball is, denying any passes to attackers in the “dangerous space” - central area inside 3 Attackers inside 23m area.
• After a minimum of 2 midfield passes, ball is passed in to one of the attackers.
• Defenders shift the zone, protecting central area of defence and looking to intercept.
• If Defenders intercept, they look to release a quick outlet pass to one of the side midfielders. 

COACHING POINTS:

• The shape of the defensive zone should change as it shifts side-to-side, depending on ball position and where attackers are. For example, if the ball is on the defensive left side, the back left player in the triangle might push up  almost level with the lead point of the triangle (who will be in a more direct line to the ball.

• Against a zone, attackers do not need to interchange/switch as much. Instead, attackers should look to find seams in between defenders in the zone to cut back into. 

EVALUATION:

• Zone defending should be more efficient for defenders’ movement. Slight adjustments in positioning can cover dangerous passing lanes.
• Be aware of attackers switching/interchanging positions. Although staying in a zone structure, defenders must still be aware of dangerous lines and watch for attackers leading out into spaces in between zone.